The Grote Kerk was built between 1470–1498 by Anthonius Keldermans. It is dedicated to St Lawrence contains the tomb of Floris V, Count of Holland (d. 1296), a brass of 1546, and some paintings (1507). The mechanical clock has 27 bells by Melchior de Haze (1600s), and 8 modern bells. The tower bell was made by Jan Moer in 1525, with a diameter or 130 cm.

The two organs are world-famous. The smaller one, called the 'Koororgel', was built in 1511 by Jan van Covelens, and is built against the North wall of the church. It is the oldest playable organ in the Netherlands. The larger organ at the west end of the church is one of the most famous, significant and beautiful organs in the world. It was built by Jacobus Caltus van Hagerbeer, finished in 1645. The magnificent casework, which unusually stretches from floor to vault and makes the organ part of the architecture of the church, was designed by Jacob van Campen, a leading architect of the time. The enormous canvas shutters were painted by Caesar van Everdingen.

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Founded: 1470-1498
Category: Religious sites in Netherlands

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Jasmijn (3 months ago)
Beautiful church with huge stained glass windows. In the centre of the city, which is also great for shopping or eating
Claudia Almasi (4 months ago)
With an impressive architecture, the church amazes with the fusion of religion and the secular. It is surprising that the entire pavement of the church is made up of graves. At the time of our visit in the church there was an activity for children, something with robots, right under the big organ. There is a cafe set up inside, which I think is amazing - and very secular, I think it's the only place in the world where you can drink coffee in a church!
Claire Dwyer (6 months ago)
A wonderful old church. Modern in terms of signs and screens to tell you about its history. Also possible to have coffee inside.
Johan Meyer (7 months ago)
It's an amazing place, and the size is astounding.
Bob van Velzen (2 years ago)
Very quiet place to walk around and catch a break from the busy Alkmaar centre. Free toilets and a coffee bar. And because it is also a museum it has a kiosk with souvenirs. Juli 2023 the saffolding was up for repairs on the main stained glass window. Too bad we didn't get to seemit, but we did get to take a €5 climb up the scaffolds to get to the top and inspect the buildings facade and enjoy the views. Lovely people and well organized. I wasn't a big fan of the expanding foam art. But it definitely was special.
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